Prevent House Fires with Tips on Space Heater Safety

In 2010, heating equipment was involved in an estimated 57,100 reported U.S. home structure fires. These fires resulted in 490 deaths, 1,540 injuries and $1.1 billion in direct property damage.1 For your safety, follow these space heater safety tips:

Select a space heater with a guard around the flame area or the heating element. This will help keep children, pets and clothing away from the heat source.

When selecting a space heater, look for one that has been tested and certified by a nationally recognized testing laboratory. These heaters have been determined to meet specific space heater safety standards, and manufacturers are required to provide important use and care information to the consumer.

Buy a heater that is the correct size for the area you want to heat.

Show everyone in your home how to use a space heater properly.

Keep doors open to the rest of the house if you are using an unvented fuel-burning (kerosene or natural gas) space heater. This helps to prevent pollutant build-up and promotes proper combustion. Even vented heaters require ventilation for proper combustion.

Never leave a space heater on when you go to sleep or leave the area. For fuel-fired heaters, dangerous levels of carbon monoxide could accumulate, or unmonitored burning could cause a fire.

Be aware that mobile homes require specially designated heating equipment. Only electric or vented fuel-fired heaters should be used.

The information listed above was obtained from sources believed to be reliable. Nationwide, its affiliates and employees do not guarantee improved results based upon the information contained herein and assume no liability in connection with the information or the provided safety suggestions. The recommendations provided are general in nature; unique circumstances may not warrant or require implementation of some or all of the safety suggestions. There may be additional available safety procedures that are not referenced on this webpage.